President of Saint Peter's University, Eugene Cornacchia, released a statement this evening addressing the shooting and attempted robbery of a Saint Peter's employee in the lot 3 parking lot by the Recreational Life Center (RLC) on Montgomery Street, near West Side Avenue at 9:40 a.m. today.

"As you are aware, two men attempted to rob an employee in the RLC
parking lot this morning," said Cornacchia. "The employee sustained a non-life threatening
gunshot wound to the leg. He was transported to Jersey City Medical
Center where he was treated and released. Our thoughts are with him as
he recuperates."

"I
would like to commend the Campus Safety Officer that was on site for
her assistance," he continued. "Her quick thinking helped to thwart the robbery and
forced the men to leave campus.

The JCPD
is currently investigating the situation and searching for the two
suspects. We will keep the community apprised of any developments. The RLC parking lot will remain closed until further notice."

Students around campus expressed their surprise on hearing the news.

"I'm shocked," said Emily Mascola, a freshman who just moved in to her dorm from her home in Delaware. "I thought it was safe since it's a religious school."

Mascola said that she plans on staying in her room more than usual.

Some are already accustomed to Jersey City's known dangers.

"I was born and raised in Jersey City so I know it's scary," said Alex, a student and employee who wished not to reveal his last name.

"We just have to make sure to have someone around."

Campus safety released two e-mails to the St. Peter's community this morning relaying the incident but not revealing the victim's name.

Rachel Wifall, professor of English at Saint Peter's, expressed her gratitude tonight to campus safety for their service but mentioned that it is important to be aware of the dangers that surround us.

"We are always kept in the loop," she said. "St. Peter's has our back but we need to be vigilant. We're in a big city."